Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Unstuffed cabbage rolls are a delicious, hassle-free version of the classic comfort food that tastes just as satisfying without all the rolling and wrapping. This slow cooker version lets you enjoy all the flavors you love while keeping prep work to a minimum. Simply layer your ingredients and let your slow cooker do the work for you.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, then drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, cooked rice, tomato paste, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the slow cooker and stir well.
- Stir in the brown sugar and apple cider vinegar.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
Practical Tips
- Prep ahead: You can prepare all the ingredients the night before and simply pour them into the slow cooker in the morning for an easy weeknight dinner.
- Rice options: Use leftover cooked rice or cook it fresh before adding. White rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice all work well in this dish.
- Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/4 teaspoon. For extra spice, add another 1/4 teaspoon.
How to Store
This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Questions and Answers
Can I use ground turkey or pork instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or pork work great as substitutes. Use the same amount and follow the same browning instructions.
Do I need to cook the rice beforehand? Yes, the rice should be cooked before adding to the slow cooker. This ensures it reaches the proper texture during the cooking time.
What can I serve this with? This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, sour cream, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.